Outbreak at Brid Hospital closes ward

Health officials have issued a warning after a virus outbreak closed a ward at Bridlington Hospital.

Johnson Ward remains shut after high levels of the norovirus were detected, which is believed to have been introduced by visitors.

A spokesperson at York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust said: “We are experiencing a high level of norovirus in our hospitals which has resulted in the closure of wards and bays in order to stop the spread.

“Closing wards can help to contain the virus but visitors can play a huge part and we would ask them to think carefully before paying any non-essential visits at this time.”

Also known as the winter vomiting bug, the norovirus is the most common cause of infectious diarrhoea in humans.

The spokesman continued: “We are urging people who have been unwell with symptoms of diarrhoea and vomiting not to visit the hospital until they have been free of symptoms for 48 hours. We are also asking people to stay at home if they have been in contact with a household member who has been symptomatic as the virus can also be passed on through this contact.

“This is really important because the virus is highly infectious and can be brought into the hospital by family friends or relatives. The virus is easily spread by contact with an infected person, especially through their hands.

“If you have any concerns about exposure to the virus, the safest thing you can do is to stay at home.”

It comes after Oak Ward and Beech Ward at Scarborough Hospital were also shut after a norovirus outbreak.